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As Maryland and the United States move into the next stage of the COVID-19 pandemic and continue to take precautions for the health and well-being of our communities, the Maryland Coalition Against Sexual Assault (MCASA) and the Sexual Assault Legal Institute (SALI) are here for you and will continue to provide services to our clients, Rape Crisis Centers, SARTs, and other professionals. 

Survivors of sexual violence continue to experience increased dangers as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is important to share accurate information and resources with our community to make sure that survivors, friends & family, and service providers have the tools they need to continue to respond in ways that are safe and supportive. This page includes resources for survivors, advocates, service providers, and communities. We update this page regularly as more information and resources become available. This page is adapted from our national partners Futures Without Violence, and we have added Maryland-specific information. 

 

Resources & Information for Survivors Resources for Sexual Violence & Domestic Violence Advocacy Organizations & Service Providers Mindfulness & Self-Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Resources 
for Survivors

 Resources for
Service Providers		 Resources for
Communities		 Self-Care During
COVID-19

Resources & Information for Survivors

Remember that you are not alone and there is support available to you at all times, including during this health crisis.

  • In Maryland:
    • For your local Rape Crisis Center information including hotline hours and numbers, please visit our Rape Crisis Center page. 
    • MCASA’s Sexual Assault Legal Institute (SALI) continues to provide comprehensive legal services to survivors of sexual violence statewide, during this time. SALI attorneys and staff are working remotely and are available to answer legal questions and conduct intakes for first-time callers in need of legal representation. Please call 301-565-2277 or toll-free at 877-496-SALI. 
      • SALI’s attorneys and advocates are available to help address financial issues regarding COVID-19 related leave, utility cut offs, internet access, and housing issues.
    • Courthouses and clerks' offices are fully open to the public.  As of March 7, 2022, courts have resumed hearing all matters, including jury trials. Judges continue hearing new Peace and Protective Order petitions in-person during normal business hours. After normal business hours or on weekends, you can go to the Commissioner's Office to apply for an Interim Peace or Protective Order. You must initially file for a Peace or Protective Order in person. Courts may allow remote hearings in some matters, either by video or telephone, varying by location. For the most up to date information, call SALI or your local Rape Crisis Center. Information varies by courthouse. This website provides more detailed information: https://mdcourts.gov/coronavirusinformationforpublic
    • Sexual Assault Forensic Exams During COVID-19 
  • Find additional state and local resources by calling Maryland 211 or visiting their website: 211md.org
  • A safety plan is a personalized, practical plan that includes ways to remain safe in your current living situation, especially as things change due to COVID-19 recommended guidelines. You can review options for safety planning while under quarantine, here (click here for a Spanish version). SALI attorneys and advocates also help address financial security through financial safety planning.
  • Learn options for protecting yourself online:
  • Consider identifying and reaching out to a friend, co-worker, or family member who could check in with you about your safety and support needs, should you have to quarantine at home.
  • Your health and wellness are important: 

Resources for Sexual Violence & Domestic Violence Advocacy Organizations & Service Providers

What SA/DV programs can do, adapted from the Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence:

  • Stay up to date with your local health department. Make contact with health officials in your county who can provide guidance and resources as the situation changes.
  • Plan with program staff and community partners for how you will continue to provide essential services and meet the needs of vulnerable populations. See the Emergency Preparedness Resources for Maryland.
  • Courthouses and clerks' offices are fully open to the public.  As of March 7, 2022, courts have resumed hearing all matters, including jury trials. Judges continue hearing new Peace and Protective Order petitions in-person during normal business hours. After normal business hours or on weekends, you can go to the Commissioner's Office to apply for an Interim Peace or Protective Order. You must initially file for a Peace or Protective Order in person. Courts may allow remote hearings in some matters, either by video or telephone, varying by location. For the most up to date information, call SALI or your local Rape Crisis Center. Information varies by courthouse. This website provides more detailed information: https://mdcourts.gov/coronavirusinformationforpublic

Resources from other groups:

Resources for Communities

Translated Information

Vaccine Information

Supporting Survivors

Misc. Information

Mindfulness & Self-Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Self-Care for Direct Service Providers

Methods of Self-Care

Many of these tips, techniques and links were distributed by the Montgomery County HHS/Trauma Services staff and the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual & Domestic Violence to assist with anxieties during the COVID19 crisis we are living through. Thank you for these resources!

Draw & color mandalas (options here & here) Pray Exercise
Create a new routine Practice yoga Meditate
Connect with friends & loved ones Listen to music Breathe deeply

 

 

Last updated 6/13/2023.  If you have resources to share, please contact MCASA at [email protected] with “COVID19” in the subject.